Multi-layer security element register accuracy via partial lacquer mask
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-layer body production methods struggle to achieve seamless transitions between layers due to positional tolerances, compromising security against forgery and visual appearance, especially when different layers need to be arranged in register across various areas.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a partial lacquer layer that extends into both covered and uncovered areas by the metal layer, used as a mask for demetallization and structuring, ensuring precise register accuracy through etching or other processes, allowing for complex and attractive designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sequential application of individual layers is used to produce multi-layer bodies, then production flexibility and design options are maintained, but register accuracy and seamless transitions between layers cannot be reliably achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the production process into distinct zones (first area with full metal layer, second area with partial metal layer, third area with no metal layer) and applies different lacquer layer configurations to each zone. This allows register-accurate seamless transitions within each zone while maintaining design flexibility across the entire multi-layer body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different structural configurations to different areas of the multi-layer body. The first area has a complete metal layer with lacquer applied over it, the second area has a partial metal layer with lacquer extending beyond it, and the third area has no metal layer. This local differentiation enables precise register accuracy in each area while maintaining overall design versatility.
2Reliability
If different layers are arranged in register across different areas, then security against forgery and visual appearance are improved, but production complexity and process steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies lacquer layers in advance before final metal layer deposition in certain areas. The partial lacquer layer is applied to the substrate before the metal layer is deposited in the second area, establishing a predetermined configuration that simplifies subsequent production steps while ensuring register accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies lacquer layers partially in certain areas rather than uniformly across the entire substrate. The partial lacquer layer extends beyond the metal layer only in the second area, while being applied over the metal layer in the first area and not applied in the third area. This partial application reduces unnecessary production complexity while achieving the required security and visual effects.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the production of multi-layer bodies with enhanced security against forgery and improved visual appeal by ensuring precise layer alignment, increasing design options and visual effects.
Implementation Method 1
the structuring of the metal layer takes place with the aid of the partial lacquer layer as a mask, in that the metal layer is structured by partially removing the metal layer in those areas that are not covered by the partial lacquer layer
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing a multi-layer body, in particular a security element, comprising the following steps: a) generating a metal layer on a substrate; b) partially demetallising the metal layer in order to form a first item of visual information in a first region of the multi-layer body; c) applying a partial coating layer in a second region of the multi-layer body in order to form a second item of visual information, said partial coating layer extending at least partially beyond the metal layer; d) structuring the partial metal layer in the second region using the partial coating layer as a mask. The invention also relates to a multi-layer body produced in this manner.